The Etowah County Jail, located at 827 Forrest Avenue in Gadsden, Alabama, operates as a medium-security detention facility with a capacity of approximately 500 inmates. Under the Etowah County Sheriff’s Office, the facility provides comprehensive services, including medical care, mental health support, and rehabilitation programs. The jail implements systematic classification procedures, housing inmates across ten units based on risk factors and specific needs. Crucial services encompass educational programs, vocational training, and legal resources while maintaining strict security protocols through direct supervision and surveillance systems. Additional investigation discloses extensive support services and reintegration programs for successful community transition.
Etowah County Jail Operations & Overview
The Etowah County Detention Center, classified as a medium-security facility, operates under the oversight of the Etowah County Sheriff’s Office and adheres to regulations set forth by the Alabama Department of Corrections. This facility, located at 827 Forrest Avenue Gadsden, Alabama, 35903, is a critical component in the local criminal justice system, ensuring public safety and the humane treatment of inmates.
The current Sheriff, Jonathon Horton, emphasizes the importance of compliance with state and federal standards, which includes maintaining ACA (American Correctional Association) accreditation. Medical care is available around the clock through a team of healthcare professionals, including registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and mental health specialists. To maintain safety protocols, visitors must complete security screening procedures before entering the facility.
The center, which can house approximately 500 inmates, accommodates a diverse demographic, including pre-trial detainees and convicted individuals serving short sentences. The facility’s operational policies focus on rehabilitation and safety, prioritizing programs that promote positive behavior and reduce recidivism rates.
Detention deputies, who represent a significant portion of the facility’s staffing structure, direct supervise in ten housing units, allowing constant interaction with inmates. This proactive approach helps identify potential issues before they escalate, fostering a safer environment for staff and inmates.
The facility’s design supports an open layout that encourages visibility and accessibility, ensuring that deputies can monitor inmate activities effectively. Staff’s strategic positioning facilitates immediate responses to inmate needs, enhancing the detention center’s overall security and operational efficiency.
Core values at the Etowah County Detention Center emphasize integrity, respect, and professionalism. These values guide the conduct of all personnel and underpin the facility’s mission to uphold the rights of those in custody while maintaining order.
By fostering relationships built on trust and communication, the deputies implement management techniques that encourage positive inmate behavior, further contributing to a stable environment. The comprehensive approach to inmate care, from intake to release, aligns with the goals of the Alabama Department of Corrections, which advocates for humane treatment and rehabilitation initiatives.
Etowah County Sheriff’s Office
827 Forrest Ave
Gadsden, Alabama 35903
(256) 546-2825
Initial Processing & Booking
Upon arrival at the Etowah County Detention Center, inmates immediately undergo a meticulous booking procedure to ensure security and proper documentation. Officers thoroughly search each individual, inventory personal property, and verify identities through fingerprinting and checks against identification numbers. This initial stage establishes a secure foundation for processing new arrivals, emphasizing the importance of accurately documenting each inmate’s belongings and ensuring no contraband enters the facility. Officers ensure each inmate has a valid photo ID to confirm their identity during processing.
Following the searches, officers conduct personal interviews, capturing essential biographical information and assessing potential release conditions. Inmates are photographed for identification purposes, creating a visual record that assists in maintaining security throughout their detention. Initial health screenings, including medical and mental health evaluations, identify immediate care needs. These assessments may reveal critical health issues that require urgent attention, ensuring inmates receive appropriate medical support right from the start. Depending on various factors, the process can take anywhere from 1 to 48 hours.
The handling of personal property remains a vital component of the booking process. Officers meticulously document all items, and inmates sign receipts acknowledging the custody of their belongings, which are securely stored during their stay. This detailed inventory process protects the inmates’ rights and the facility’s accountability, setting a standard for property management within the detention center.
Upon completing these procedures, inmates receive notification of their rights, including information about visitation, communication, and the grievance process. This notification ensures that individuals understand their entitlements while detained, fostering an atmosphere of transparency and respect for their dignity. Officers take the time to explain these rights, allowing inmates to ask questions and seek clarification when necessary.
The initial security assessment follows, where officers evaluate each inmate’s behavior and history to determine the appropriate classification. Based on this evaluation, security classifications dictate housing assignments, ensuring inmates are placed in environments that reflect their needs and risks. Higher-risk individuals might be assigned to more secure areas, while those deemed lower risk may be placed in less restrictive settings.
Subsequently, inmates are escorted to their temporary housing assignments, where they receive facility clothing and are integrated into their respective units. Throughout this transition, the staff maintains direct supervision to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
The Compliance Section oversees adherence to facility standards, while specialized team members remain available to address inmate needs and mediate conflicts, contributing to a stable environment during detention. From booking to initial housing, this comprehensive approach establishes a structured process to promote the well-being, safety, and security of all individuals within the facility.
Helpful Resource: Etowah County mugshot access
Helpful Resource: Etowah County Jail Inmate Search
Inmate Housing Assignment & Classification Process
Inmate classification within the Etowah County Jail operates through a rigorous system that assesses various risk factors, including the nature of criminal charges, bond conditions, probation status, and any outstanding warrants. This multifaceted evaluation leads to the categorization of inmates into distinct classification levels, which directly influence their housing assignments.
For instance, inmates facing violent offenses may be classified at a higher risk level, necessitating placement in more secure units. In contrast, those with minor charges may qualify for lower-risk housing options. Staff at 827 Forrest Avenue conduct thorough evaluations to ensure proper placement decisions.
The jail comprises ten housing units, each tailored to accommodate specific custody levels. Minimum and medium custody areas utilize direct supervision, where detention deputies continuously interact with inmates to foster a safer environment. Due to recent changes, Gadsden’s municipal inmates will now receive 24/7 medical care at the Calhoun County Jail facility.
In contrast, special management and maximum security units implement indirect supervision, relying on security glass and video surveillance systems to monitor inmate behavior while maintaining a secure perimeter. Such divisions ensure inmates are housed in an environment that aligns with their classification level, enhancing safety and rehabilitation opportunities.
Special housing considerations further refine the classification process, addressing the unique needs of inmates with medical and mental health requirements. For example, inmates requiring psychiatric care may be placed in dedicated units equipped with appropriate resources, ensuring their well-being and compliance with healthcare protocols.
This tailored approach not only supports the individual needs of inmates but also contributes to the facility’s overall safety.
Upon arrival, each inmate undergoes a thorough classification review process that reassesses their risk factors and housing suitability. This review occurs periodically, allowing for adjustments based on behavioral changes or new information, such as an updated criminal charge.
Factors influencing unit assignments include inmates’ prior behavior, compliance with facility rules, and any changes in their legal status. Such dynamic evaluations ensure inmates are housed according to their current risk and needs, promoting a more effective management system.
Movement between classifications occurs as inmates demonstrate behavioral changes or complete rehabilitation programs. For instance, inmates who adhere to facility rules for a specified period may be eligible for reassignment to a lower custody level, granting them access to more privileges and a less restrictive environment.
Conversely, violations of facility regulations may lead to reclassification to a higher security level, reinforcing the importance of compliance.
Housing restrictions and requirements are strictly enforced to maintain order and security within the facility. Based on their classification level, inmates may face limitations on movement, communication, and access to recreational activities.
For example, those in maximum security units might have limited time outside their cells and fewer opportunities for social interaction than those in minimum security. Such regulations are vital in preserving the safety of both inmates and staff, ensuring that each individual is placed in an environment that corresponds to their assessed risk.
Safety Protocols & Security Operations
Daily security operations at Etowah County Jail begin with rigorous protocols designed to uphold the facility’s integrity and ensure the safety of both staff and inmates. Officers conduct systematic counts of inmates at designated intervals, typically every hour, utilizing both manual counting methods and digital tracking systems to verify the presence of each individual. These count procedures facilitate accurate accountability, reducing the potential for discrepancies that could compromise safety. Observations during these counts also enable officers to identify any unusual behavior or potential security threats among the inmate population.
To thwart the introduction of contraband, the facility employs a multifaceted detection strategy. Officers thoroughly search inmate living areas and communal spaces, utilizing handheld metal detectors and drug-sniffing dogs to identify unauthorized items. Each officer receives training in recognizing signs of contraband, which can range from weapons to illicit substances, ensuring they remain vigilant during routine interactions with inmates.
The jail also implements strict movement control protocols. Any transfer of inmates between areas requires prior authorization and is closely monitored through electronic tracking systems, ensuring that all movements are logged and accounted for.
Emergency response procedures stand as a cornerstone of the facility’s safety framework. Officers maintain readiness to act swiftly during a disturbance, with established protocols that include immediate communication with the control center, which oversees security operations. This center acts as the nerve hub for incident reporting and response and is equipped with real-time surveillance systems that monitor inmate activity throughout the facility.
Security personnel utilize two-way radios and panic buttons to communicate urgent needs, ensuring rapid resource deployment in an emergency.
Search procedures are meticulously executed to uphold security standards. A comprehensive intake search occurs whenever a new inmate arrives, involving a detailed pat-down and body scanners to detect concealed items. Staff members document these searches in permanent logs, contributing to meticulous records that reflect the facility’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
Additionally, ongoing random searches of inmate cells prevent the accumulation of contraband, fostering a safer environment for all.
Control center operations integrate advanced security equipment that enhances monitoring capabilities. Surveillance cameras positioned strategically throughout the facility provide a 24/7 visual feed, allowing staff to observe inmate interactions and detect potential conflicts before they escalate. This proactive approach is supplemented by motion sensors and alarm systems that alert officers to unauthorized access or unusual movements within restricted areas.
Incident reporting and response protocols are critical for maintaining safety and operational efficiency. Whether minor or severe, each incident is documented in shift reports, providing a comprehensive account of events that can be reviewed during debriefing sessions. Officers receive training on assessing incidents accurately and responding appropriately based on the nature and severity of the situation.
This structured reporting process not only helps identify trends and areas for improvement but also enhances the overall effectiveness of the facility’s security measures.
Through these detailed and interwoven security measures, Etowah County Jail ensures a robust environment that prioritizes inmates’ safety and well-being. Each aspect of the security operations, from daily protocols to emergency responses, is designed to work in concert, creating a cohesive system that mitigates risks and fosters a secure detention atmosphere.
Etowah County Jail Inmate Support Services & Development Programs
Etowah County Jail maintains a comprehensive network of inmate support services to facilitate rehabilitation and personal development.
The facility offers crucial educational programs, including GED preparation, vocational training, and health and wellness services encompassing medical care, mental health counseling, and substance abuse treatment.
Through structured rehabilitation initiatives and reintegration programs, inmates receive guidance in life skills development, job readiness, and access to faith-based support systems that aim to reduce recidivism rates.
Basic Inmate Services
The comprehensive inmate services at Etowah County Jail prioritize essential medical care, ensuring inmates receive timely access to healthcare. Qualified healthcare professionals conduct initial screenings and thorough examinations upon intake, followed by daily health appraisals that monitor ongoing well-being. This proactive approach addresses medical needs swiftly, preventing minor issues from escalating into significant health concerns.
Mental health services play a crucial role in supporting inmates’ psychological well-being. The facility collaborates with the CED Mental Health Center, providing evaluations, counseling, and psychiatric services tailored to individual needs. Inmates benefit from telepsychiatry, which expands access to specialized care, ensuring that those requiring advanced support receive appropriate interventions without unnecessary delays.
Meal services offer nutritious options to meet dietary requirements and promote overall health. The jail provides three meals daily, adhering to a menu accommodating various dietary restrictions, including vegetarian and religious preferences. Each meal meets the standard nutritional guidelines, ensuring inmates receive balanced portions that support their physical health.
Hygiene and laundry services maintain cleanliness and dignity within the facility. Inmates receive personal hygiene items, such as soap and toothpaste, regularly replenished to promote hygiene habits. Laundry services operate weekly, allowing inmates to maintain personal cleanliness by washing their clothing and bedding under supervised conditions, contributing to a healthier living environment.
Commissary operations enhance the inmates’ daily experience by providing access to various items, including snacks, hygiene products, and writing materials. Inmates can order items from a catalog on a bi-weekly basis, allowing for personal choice and the ability to supplement their meals or engage in leisure activities, such as writing letters or reading.
Religious services foster spiritual well-being through access to various faith-based programs. The facility accommodates different religious practices by organizing weekly services, offering counseling, and providing access to religious texts. Inmates can participate in prayer groups and study sessions, promoting community and belonging.
Recreation access is designed to support physical health and mental wellness through structured activities. Inmates engage in recreational programs that include outdoor exercise, sports, and fitness classes. Scheduled recreation time allows inmates to relieve stress, improve physical fitness, and build social connections, contributing to a more positive facility atmosphere.
Library services provide inmates with opportunities for intellectual engagement and personal growth. The facility maintains a well-stocked library with fiction, non-fiction, legal resources, and educational materials. Inmates can request books and engage in reading programs, fostering a culture of learning and self-improvement during their time in the facility.
Education & Recovery Programs
At Etowah County Jail, transformative educational programs serve as a vital pathway for inmates seeking personal growth and skill enhancement. Inmates engage in GED (General Educational Development) preparation, enabling them to attain a high school equivalency diploma, significantly boosting their employability. This foundational education lays the groundwork for further learning, particularly in vocational training programs.
These programs offer hands-on experience in trades such as carpentry and electrical work, equipping participants with practical skills in high demand in the job market. Tailored career counseling services complement these efforts, guiding individuals through job search strategies and resume writing, thus enhancing their readiness for employment post-release.
The jail implements robust substance abuse treatment initiatives with education and vocational training. These programs address the critical needs of individuals struggling with addiction, integrating evidence-based therapies alongside peer support mechanisms.
Behavioral programs foster mental health awareness and resilience, allowing inmates to explore their emotions and behaviors in a safe environment. Group therapy and individual counseling promote personal accountability and healthier coping strategies essential for long-term recovery.
Life skills training further enriches the rehabilitation experience by teaching inmates essential competencies for successful reintegration into society. Participants learn financial literacy, effective communication, and conflict resolution, which are crucial for navigating everyday challenges.
Work programs provide real-world experience, allowing inmates to engage in meaningful labor while earning a small wage. This instills a sense of responsibility and prepares them for future employment opportunities.
Eligibility for these comprehensive programs generally requires inmates to maintain good behavior and to participate actively in the courses offered. Completion of each program is contingent upon meeting specific requirements, such as attendance rates and successful demonstration of learned skills.
For instance, vocational training participants often must complete a designated number of hours of hands-on instruction and pass competency assessments to earn certification.
Communication & Visitation Guidelines
At Etowah County Jail, maintaining connections with inmates involves various communication methods and visitation protocols that ensure security and efficiency.
Visitors can engage in non-contact visits through secured booths, providing a safe environment for interaction. Video visitation options are also available, offering an alternative for those unable to visit in person. Scheduling these visits requires a minimum of 24 hours’ advance notice, with visits primarily occurring on Sundays from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
To gain access to visitation, individuals must undergo a visitor approval process, including presenting a valid government-issued ID and passing background checks. This step filters out individuals who may pose security risks, ensuring a safe environment for everyone involved.
Visitors are expected to adhere to specific conduct requirements, which include following the facility’s dress code and complying with security measures, such as metal detector screenings.
Families with children under 18 must ensure that a parent or legal guardian accompanies minors throughout the visit. This policy emphasizes the importance of adult supervision in maintaining a secure and respectful atmosphere within the facility.
Special provisions may be available for unique circumstances, requiring advance communication with jail staff to arrange any necessary accommodations.
In addition to in-person visits, inmates can also receive communication through various channels. Mail procedures allow letters to be sent to inmates but are subject to screening to ensure safety and security.
Electronic communication options include Securus eMessaging, where messages are charged at $0.50 to $1.00 per page (up to 500 characters), with the possibility of adding photo attachments for an additional cost of $0.50. This platform enables timely exchanges, though all messages are monitored.
Access to the telephone system presents another avenue for inmates to maintain contact. Specific guidelines govern phone calls, including prepaid phone accounts, ensuring all communications remain secure and regulated.
These combined efforts create a structured environment that balances the need for communication with the necessary safety protocols within the facility.
Inmate Legal Resources & Protected Rights
Inmates at Etowah County Jail possess fundamental legal rights that safeguard their dignity and ensure fair treatment during incarceration. These rights include access to necessary medical care, which the Eighth Amendment mandates. The facility must provide adequate health services, including prenatal care for pregnant inmates and mental health evaluations, guaranteeing that all inmates receive the medical attention they require without delay.
When grievances arise, inmates can initiate a formal complaint process designed to address violations of their rights. This procedure involves submitting a written grievance to the appropriate jail staff, who must respond within a specified timeframe. Inmates must keep records of their grievances and any responses to track the progress of their complaints effectively.
If the resolution is unsatisfactory, they may escalate the matter to external legal organizations that specialize in civil rights issues.
Access to legal resources remains a crucial component of an inmate’s rights. Inmates can utilize the Jailhouse Lawyers Manual and similar materials, which provide comprehensive guidance on navigating the complexities of the legal system. Court appearance procedures require inmates to be transported to scheduled hearings, where they must be allowed to present their case adequately.
Jail staff coordinate these appearances, ensuring inmates arrive punctually and are prepared to engage with the judicial process.
Attorney visits are essential for inmates seeking legal counsel. The facility permits regular consultations with attorneys, allowing inmates to discuss their cases in private. These visits occur in designated areas to ensure confidentiality, and inmates must arrange appointments in advance.
Legal representation plays a pivotal role in upholding the rights of inmates, particularly in matters relating to their health care and conditions of confinement.
Inmates also benefit from a law library stocked with legal texts and resources. This library enables them to research their cases, file motions, and understand their rights more thoroughly. Staff members may assist in locating specific legal materials, ensuring inmates can navigate their legal challenges effectively.
Understanding bail bond information is equally vital for inmates. The jail provides details regarding the bail process, including the types of bonds available and the amounts required for release. Inmates can communicate with family members or friends to arrange bail, facilitating their reintegration into the community when possible.
This information empowers inmates to take proactive steps toward their legal futures while protecting their rights throughout incarceration.
Etowah County Public Defender & District Attorney
The Etowah County District Attorney’s Office, located at 801 Forrest Avenue, Gadsden, AL 35901, is pivotal in the county’s criminal justice framework. Under the leadership of District Attorney Jody Willoughby, who previously served as a Municipal Court Judge in Southside, the office prioritizes many specialized initiatives to enhance community safety and justice.
The office has established significant programs such as the Pre-Trial Diversion Program, which emphasizes the rehabilitation of first-time, non-violent offenders, and the Worthless Check Unit, which has successfully recovered over $10 million in restitution since its inception in 1985. These efforts reflect the office’s commitment to justice while addressing the needs of victims and the community.
Equally important, the Etowah County Public Defender’s Office provides essential legal representation for those unable to afford private counsel. Located at 801 Forrest Avenue, Suite G-11, Gadsden, AL 35901, the office ensures that defendants’ rights are protected throughout the judicial process.
The dedicated public defenders within this office navigate complex legal systems to advocate for their clients, working diligently to secure fair outcomes. Focusing on providing comprehensive defense services, the public defender’s office also engages in community outreach and education, fostering a greater understanding of legal rights and available resources.
The District Attorney’s Office and the Public Defender’s Office collaborate within the framework of the Sixteenth Judicial Circuit, where they share a common goal of upholding justice and protecting vulnerable populations.
The District Attorney’s Office coordinates with specialized support units to safeguard children, victims, and witnesses. At the same time, the Public Defender’s Office ensures that even those facing serious charges receive a robust defense. This dual approach enhances the criminal justice system’s integrity and promotes a balanced perspective on prosecution and defense, reflecting the complexities of legal processes.
In this way, the interplay between the District Attorney’s Office and the Public Defender’s Office illustrates a comprehensive approach to justice in Etowah County. Both entities contribute unique expertise and resources, working together to address the community’s diverse needs while maintaining a steadfast commitment to legal principles and advocacy.
The collaborative efforts of these offices exemplify a modern understanding of justice, where rehabilitation and accountability coexist, ensuring that all individuals have access to fair legal representation and effective prosecution.
Release & Community Preparation
Etowah County Detention Center prioritizes a thorough release planning process that aligns with the needs of inmates transitioning back into society. By collaborating with the State Board of Probation and Parole, the facility develops personalized plans that address individual circumstances, ensuring inmates understand the requirements for successful reintegration.
For instance, program completion requirements may include finishing educational courses or participating in therapeutic interventions, which equip inmates with essential life skills and enhance their employability upon release.
Connecting inmates with community resources plays a vital role in their reintegration journey. The detention center actively engages with local organizations and services that provide critical post-release support, such as housing assistance programs that help secure stable living conditions.
For example, partnerships with agencies like the Housing Authority of Etowah County deliver transitional housing options for those in need, ensuring that individuals have a safe space as they adjust to life outside the facility. Employment assistance initiatives, including job training workshops and resume-building sessions, empower inmates to secure gainful employment, further stabilizing their transition.
Continued treatment options remain paramount for inmates who require ongoing support after their release. The center facilitates connections to various mental health and substance abuse treatment programs, ensuring that individuals have access to the necessary resources to maintain their well-being.
For instance, support groups and counseling services are readily available, allowing former inmates to address any lingering challenges they may face. Family reunification support is also crucial, as the detention center encourages inmates to rebuild relationships with their loved ones. Programs designed to facilitate communication and visitation help strengthen familial bonds, which can serve as a reliable support system for individuals as they navigate life post-incarceration.
Etowah County Detention Center integrates these comprehensive strategies to foster an environment conducive to successful reintegration. Inmates receive the guidance and resources necessary for a smooth transition, ultimately contributing to safer communities and reduced recidivism rates.
With a strong emphasis on collaboration with community partners and a commitment to providing holistic support, the facility exemplifies a proactive approach to preparing inmates for their return to society.
Additional Resource: Alabama Department of Corrections – state directory
Etowah County Jail Performance Metrics & Compliance Reports
Operational standards at the Etowah County Detention Center have faced scrutiny due to persistent compliance monitoring challenges. The facility’s performance metrics reveal a troubling history, underscored by the March 2012 compliance inspection by the Office of Detention Oversight (ODI), which identified deficiencies in key operational areas such as detainee grievance procedures, food service, and medical care.
These findings contrast sharply with the “Acceptable” ratings achieved in previous years (2010 and 2011) by MGT of America, Inc., suggesting that while minimal benchmarks were met, deeper systemic issues remained unresolved.
Incident statistics further illuminate the facility’s ongoing operational hurdles. Reports indicate an alarming rate of altercations among detainees, with a noted increase of 15% in violent incidents from 2016 to 2018. Furthermore, the adequacy of healthcare provisions received critical attention during a 2018 investigation by the Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (CRCL) division, which scrutinized the conditions of confinement and healthcare access for detainees.
Despite Sheriff Horton’s assertions of positive inspection outcomes, the cumulative data painted a stark picture, leading to the termination of ICE’s relationship with the facility in April 2022 due to a “long history of serious deficiencies” in operational standards.
Program success rates hinge on effective population management strategies, which have proven challenging. The facility often operates at or near-maximum capacity, with the average daily population fluctuating around 380 detainees, significantly straining resources and personnel.
Budget allocation remains a contentious issue, as financial constraints limit the implementation of necessary improvements in staffing and facility upgrades. Allocating approximately 40% of the budget to staff salaries has left insufficient funds for training and development programs, which are crucial for enhancing operational efficacy.
Staff training initiatives have not kept pace with the evolving needs of the facility. Despite efforts to provide ongoing training, only 60% of corrections officers have completed the mandatory annual professional development courses.
This gap in training exacerbates existing compliance issues, particularly in areas such as crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques, which are essential for maintaining safety within the facility. As operational standards continue to be evaluated, the need for comprehensive training and resource allocation reform becomes increasingly evident, necessitating immediate attention to foster a more secure environment for detainees and staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens if an Inmate Needs Emergency Dental Care?
Emergency dental care is accessed through Medical Sick Call or request forms. Inmates with severe pain, infection, or trauma receive priority treatment from the weekly visiting dentist or outside emergency facilities.
Can Inmates Vote in Local Elections While Incarcerated?
Inmates can vote in local elections if they haven’t been convicted of a felony. Those with misdemeanors or in pre-trial detention maintain voting rights and can request absentee ballots while incarcerated.
How Are Service Animals Handled During Visitation?
Service animals must be allowed during visitation per ADA guidelines. Animals must remain under handler control consistently, though no advance notice or special documentation is required.
What Holidays Are Packages and Gifts Allowed to Be Received?
According to facility policies, packages and gifts are prohibited during holidays. All items must follow standard mail procedures year-round, with no special exceptions during holidays.
Do Inmates Have Access to Educational Testing Like GED or SAT?
Yes, inmates can access GED testing through a partnership with Gadsden State Community College. The facility offers GED preparation courses, adult basic education, and offline computer-based testing for certification.